Peter Tanyanyiwa
Herald Reporter
As Zimbabwe commemorates its 46th Independence Anniversary today at Maphisa Growth Point in Matobo District, church leaders have rallied behind the country’s development trajectory, commending the leadership of President Mnangagwa for steering the nation towards inclusive growth and unity.
The celebrations, running under a renewed spirit of patriotism and national pride, have drawn participation from various sectors, with the Church reaffirming its role as a key partner in nation-building and socio-economic transformation.
Prominent cleric and founder of God’s Generals International Fraternity, Bishop Aderino Nyabanga, said Independence Day was not only a time for reflection on the liberation struggle, but also a moment to recommit to national development anchored on faith, unity and collective responsibility.
Bishop Nyabanga paid tribute to President Mnangagwa’s leadership, describing it as visionary and inclusive.
“Today we celebrate not only political independence, but the continued transformation of our nation under the leadership of His Excellency, President Mnangagwa,” he said. “His vision of leaving no one and no place behind resonates with the biblical mandate to care for all members of society.”
He said the Church remained committed to supporting Government programmes under Vision 2030, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an upper middle-income economy.
“As the Church, we are called to build, to guide and to uplift. The Second Republic has opened space for partnerships that empower communities, and we fully support this trajectory of development,” said Bishop Nyabanga.
He added that Zimbabwe’s independence gains should be safeguarded through unity, hard work and faith.
“Scripture reminds us in Psalm 33:12 that, ‘Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.’ As Zimbabweans, we must continue to place God at the centre of our national development,” he said.
Bishop Nyabanga also cited 2 Chronicles 7:14, urging citizens to remain prayerful and united: “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray… then I will hear from heaven, and I will heal their land.”
He said such values were critical in consolidating the gains of independence and ensuring sustainable development.
“Independence was fought for through sacrifice, and it must be preserved through discipline, unity and vision. Under President Mnangagwa’s leadership, we are witnessing policies that empower communities, promote inclusivity and drive economic growth,” he said.
The cleric further highlighted the role of the Church in complementing Government efforts through community empowerment initiatives, leadership training and social support programmes.
“The Church must not stand aside. We are partners in development. We must equip people with values, skills and a sense of purpose so that they contribute meaningfully to national progress,” he said.
Zimbabwe attained independence in 1980 following a protracted liberation struggle, and the annual commemorations serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by liberation heroes and heroines.
This year’s celebrations come as the country continues to implement development programmes across sectors, with emphasis on infrastructure, social services and economic empowerment.
Bishop Nyabanga said the Church would continue to pray for the nation and its leadership.
“We thank God for the peace and stability we enjoy. We also thank President Mnangagwa for his steadfast leadership. As it is written in Proverbs 29:2, ‘When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.’ Our duty is to support, to pray and to work together for a prosperous Zimbabwe,” he said.
Online Reporter